Barnard Castle History

Situated 25 miles southwest of Durham the market town of Barnard Castle makes a great base for exploring the West Durham Moors or Upper Dales. The town’s history dates back to Roman times and construction of the eponymous castle was started in 11th century by the powerful Balliol family to fortify a crossing of the River Tees.

The Balliols were a prominent Anglo-Scottish family who played a significant part in history down the years; one of their number founded Balliol College at Oxford University and John Balliol became Edward I of Scotland’s puppet king and was better known as ‘toom tabard’ meaning empty jacket.

By the 16th century Barnard Castle has lost much of its strategic significance and much of the masonry was removed to rebuild and repair nearby Raby Castle. However what remains of Barnard Castle is now under the care of English Heritage and is open to the public.